Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency in 91 counties Wednesday night in response to wildfires in south Georgia, according to a press release.
The state of emergency comes as south Georgia and parts of north Florida continue to experience extreme drought conditions, creating prime circumstances for wildfires.
The state of emergency will remain in place for 30 days, unless it is renewed. "The State of Emergency allows for the Georgia Department of Defense to mobilize Georgia National Guard troops and resources for response and recovery efforts," the release said.
The declaration also prevents price gouging. A burn ban is also in effect as of Wednesday to prevent any more fires from starting.
State agencies including the Georgia Forestry Commission, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Georgia State Patrol are collaborating with federal forces to respond to the fires.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is helping relocate livestock in affected areas.
In an X post, Gov. Kemp urged Georgians to pay close attention to guidance from GFC.
We’re putting everything we have into the fight, and I urge all Georgians – especially those in South Georgia – to pay close attention to guidance from @GATrees and local authorities. https://t.co/Hhwl8ywiZc
— Governor Brian P. Kemp (@GovKemp) April 22, 2026
As of Wednesday night, there were over five active fires and dozens of controlled fires across the state, according to a live interactive fire map maintained by GFC.
🚨 A State of Emergency has been declared for 91 counties in South Georgia as wildfires continue to spread amid extreme drought conditions.
In this video, Director Sabo provides an update on response efforts and shares important information for Georgians.
⚠️ A mandatory burn… pic.twitter.com/19LVU5ykq0
— GAForestryCommission (@GaTrees) April 22, 2026
"Wildfire activity has already surpassed our five-year average," GFC Director Johnny Sabo said in a video update Wednesday evening. "Our priority is simple: keep people safe and contain these fires as quickly as possible."
GFC Director Sabo emphasized that GFC teams are fully mobilized.
